Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are legal cards or documents that are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to allow visitors to observe habituated gorilla families in their natural habitat. Those wishing to take part in gorilla trekking must be over the age of fifteen and will be required to acquire a permit. Uganda has two national parks that contain habituated mountain gorillas; Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which harbors half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
In 2023/2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for a foreign non-resident is 700 USD per person; for a foreign resident it is 600 USD per person; and for East African citizens it is 250,000 UGX per person. For those wishing for a more personal experience, the gorilla habituation permit is available at a cost of 1,500 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 1,000 USD per person for foreign residents and 750,000 UGX per person for East African citizens.
To ensure the safety of the endangered gorillas and their environment, the regulations and costs are set in place by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Visitors must be familiar with all rules stated on the permit and adhere to them at all times. Additionally, visitors must be aware that the price of the permit not only covers the cost of being in the presence of these wonderful primates but also funds conservation measures taken to protect the gorillas and their environment.
How to book a Uganda gorilla trekking permit
A Uganda gorilla trekking permit in 2023/2024 can be booked through a trusted tour operator like Kofi Travel Safaris. After contacting us with the date, month, year and gorilla destination that you wish to visit, we will check for permit availability by contacting Uganda Wildlife Authority. If there are permits available on your preferred dates, you will be asked to make a deposit. Once we receive the payment, we will purchase the permits on your behalf and send you a scanned copy of the receipt as confirmation.
Booking a gorilla trekking permit through Achieve Global Safaris will save you all the hustle, as well as plan and organize your entire gorilla trekking safari. This includes transportation to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and back, accommodation where you will stay during your safari, services of a full time driver guide, as well as other activities to engage in after gorilla trekking and other destinations to visit during the safari.
Not only does the cost of the permit cover the chance to be in the presence of these majestic primates, but also funds conservation measures taken to protect the gorillas and their environment. All visitors must be familiar with all rules stated on the permit and adhere to them at all times.
Cost of Uganda gorilla trekking permits
A Uganda gorilla trekking permit for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park includes the opportunity to observe habituated mountain gorillas for one hour, park entrance fees, the services of an experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority guide and trained armed park rangers to ensure safety. The permit also funds conservation measures taken to protect the gorillas and their environment, making it a vital part of the trekking experience.
Best time to book a Uganda gorilla trekking permit
To ensure the best chance of securing a Uganda gorilla trekking permit, it is recommended that they are booked 3 to 6 months in advance, before the intended date of trekking. This is especially important during peak season, which runs from June to February. This is due to the competitive nature of permits, which make it easy for them to be sold out quickly. To avoid any last minute disappointments, it is wise to plan ahead and book in advance.
Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an experience that you will never forget. All trekkers are provided with a comprehensive briefing at park headquarters, covering the rules, regulations and expectations associated with the trek. The experience begins with trekkers being split into groups of eight, each group assigned a habituated gorilla family to trek and a experienced park guide.
The trek itself may take anywhere between two to sevens hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. During the trek, visitors may observe a variety of wildlife species such as birds, primates and a variety of tree species. When the gorillas are found, they are allowed to spend one hour observing their habits and lifestyle in their natural environment, whilst taking pictures and recording incredible videos. Permits also fund conservation measures taken to protect the gorillas and their environment, making this an invaluable part of the trek.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gorilla trekking permits for 2023/2024 in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are well-worth the cost due to the unforgettable opportunity they provide to observe habituated mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. They not only cover the experience of being in the presence of these majestic primates, but also fund conservation measures taken to protect the gorillas and their environment. By booking in advance, visitors will ensure they have the best chance of securing a permit and beginning their amazing journey through the magnificent African jungle. For bookings, contact Kofi Travel Safaris and they will assist you with the booking process and other related services.
